Barbecue competition now in fifth year gets official status

There are plenty of cooks participating in the Fifth annual Glen Ellyn's Backyard BBQ Cook-Off this year who think they've got the best ribs or bean dish in Illinois and, maybe, the country.

Now, they'll be able to see if that's true after Gov. Pat Quinn declared the increasingly popular September event an official state competition, which means winners can qualify for national contests.

It also means more prestige and street cred for what five years ago started as a small block party, said Greg Bane, who co-founded the Backyard BBQ Cook-Off.

"We're probably the largest amateur barbecue contest in the state," Bane said. "So why shouldn't we be of state championship status?"

The cook-off began in 2009, when local barbecue enthusiasts decided to get together in the 700 block of Willis Street to see who was the best at their craft. Or, as they called it, "friendly trash-talk."

Since then, it has grown into an event that features live music and is expected to bring about 60 competitors and 1,500 visitors this year, said Amy Van Polen, a member of the BBQ planning committee.

But the Backyard BBQ is about more than just fun and good food.

Proceeds of the cook-off go toward providing services for the homeless in DuPage County.

Last year, the event brought in $22,000 for the cause, compared to $700 its first year, said Van Polen, who is also communities resource development director for Bridge Communities, the nonprofit that takes in the proceeds. This year's goal is $30,000, which would keep three families in housing for a year, Van Polen said.

When the cook-off first started, another of its main goals was to bring people into Glen Ellyn's then-struggling downtown, Bane said.

"Downtown was just dying. I have lived in town my whole life and we really thought it would be a good thing to have it downtown and bring commerce and people shopping into town."

Bane said he hopes the new distinction will draw more sponsors to the event. Close to 40 teams have signed up so far, he said, leaving 20 spots open for other interested competitors.

Even without the state competition, he said, the event is a good way to enjoy a day outside.

"Whether it's in the backyard or an event with 60 teams competing, it's very social and a good way for people to get out in the community and enjoy some really good music, have a beer and have some fun," Bane said.

This year's event will be held on September 14 at the Glenwood Avenue parking lot, on the corner of Crescent Avenue and Main Street downtown.